Post 1 – Adventurecore
The aesthetic I’m choosing to explore is Adventurecore, it includes all things exploration, discovery, and connection with the natural world. The style is rooted in nostalgia for childhood adventures, literature, and media that center on journeys into the unknown, often using mountainous landscapes, practical or beaten gear, and a sense of freedom.
The Roots of Adventurecore
Adventurecore comes from a mix of classic adventure literature, such as The Hobbit (1937) by J.R.R. Tolkien, and outdoor exploration during the late 1900s. The aesthetic also has themes of wanderlust and self-discovery.
Some key media influences for myself in Adventurecore include films like Indiana Jones, The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, and Fallout. These stories all share an exploration into untamed wilderness, relying on wits, courage, and tools to navigate their environment.
Visual Elements
Gear and Tools, Natural Textures, Landscapes, Earthy Color Palette
- Warm tones like olive green, burnt orange, beige, and browns.
- Landscape examples – Rolling hills, dense forests, misty mountains, and winding rivers
- Artistic References – Journals with sketches, annotated maps, and outdoorsy media
Clothing
- Baggy pants
- Canvas clothing
- Flannels
- Hoodies
- Knapsacks
- Multiple layers of clothing
- Raincoats/boots
Cultural Context and Key Players
According to the website https://aesthetics.fandom.com/wiki/Adventurecore, one of the only informational Adventurecore sites, the modern Adventurecore aesthetic began in the 2010s on platforms like Tumblr, Pinterest, and Instagram. Some key players include influencers such as Alex Strohl and Chris Burkard who helped shape Adventurecore by showcasing breathtaking landscapes and minimalist outdoor living. Brands include Fjällräven, The North Face, and REI. Some more media examples include films like Into the Wild (2007) and animated works like Studio Ghibli films (Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind).
Influence and Legacy
Since its rise, Adventurecore has inspired subcultures like Goblincore (focusing on the magical and wild aspects of nature) and Dark Academia (which overlaps in its romanticized connection to exploration and knowledge). It also coincides with a broader societal interest in minimalism, slow living, and sustainable travel.
This aesthetic has encouraged younger generations to embrace the outdoors and value experiences over material possessions. Its influence is seen in eco-conscious tourism, DIY outdoor gear culture, and an increasing appreciation for analog tools and practices.
Adventurecore serves as a reminder of the beauty and simplicity of exploration, encouraging us to connect with nature and embrace life’s unpredictable journey.
Proofread and minimal structure generated through the use of ChatGPT
- Sona & Co. Photography. “Adventurecore Aesthetic.” https://sonaandcophoto.com/
- Kroll, Dwight. “Cover Photo for Adventurecore.” Image Source.
- Stiller, B. (2013). The Secret Life of Walter Mitty. Twentieth Century Fox.
- Tolkien, J. R. R. (2012). The Hobbit. HarperCollins.
- Pinterest. “Adventurecore Gear and Tools.” https://www.pinterest.com/pin/844493672269165/
- Patagonia. “Stories – Cover Story.” https://www.patagonia.com/stories/cover-story/story-18843.html
- Wisconsin Historical Society. “Historic Image Reference.” https://wisconsinhistory.org/Records/Image/IM37918
- Pinterest. “Adventurecore Aesthetic Inspiration.” https://www.pinterest.com/pin/5559199534975970/
- Aesthetics Fandom. “Adventurecore Overview.” https://aesthetics.fandom.com/wiki/Adventurecore